MARTIN GUITAR ANNOUNCES THE RETURN OF THE "1 SERIES," AN AMERICAN ORIGINAL

revitalizere·vi·tal·ize (verb): "to give new life or energy to someone or something"

"These are days when many are discouraged…Prosperity has always returned and will again.” – John D. Rockefeller

Nazareth, PA – April 1, 2009 – In a response to these challenging economic times, C.F. Martin & Co. is proud to announce the return of the highly popular “1 Series" acoustic guitars. Initially introduced in 1993, the “1 Series" is an affordable traditional solid wood guitar in the spirit of the Style 15 and Style 17 models that Martin introduced during The Great Depression. Addressing the concerns of consumers across the U.S. and abroad, Martin is making every concerted effort to provide players with an affordable, solid wood bodied guitar, backed by a heritage of over 175 years in skilled building excellence and a Limited Lifetime Warranty.

Constructed from solid tonewoods including a Sitka spruce top, bookmatched Sapele back and sides, as well as an East Indian Rosewood fingerboard and bridge, the “1 Series" creates the legendary rich and commanding Martin sound that has defined the acoustic guitar for generations. All four models being introduced feature Martin's modified hybrid scalloped top bracing. Two are purely acoustic guitars: a Dreadnought size D-1 and an Orchestra Model OM-1, and two add to the current selection of acoustic-electric models. The Dreadnought DC-1E and the Orchestra Model OMC-1E are each equipped with a state-of-the-art Fishman® sound reinforcement system featuring full volume and tone control and an onboard digital chromatic tuner. Whether you are choosing a purely acoustic or stage-ready acoustic-electric guitar, the new Martin “1 Series" models are designed and built to provide the best tone at the lowest price.

“For over 175 years, C.F. Martin & Co. has survived a wide variety of economic, social and political upheavals. From the Civil War, through the Roaring 20s, the Great Depression and two World Wars, we have remained steadfast in our vision of creating not only a reliable and trustworthy instrument, but an instrument that has been carefully crafted of the highest quality by dedicated men and women with exceptional skill,” said Chris Martin IV, Chairman and CEO, Martin Guitar. “We have always believed the American consumer has sought not only the best value for their hard earned money, but the best product from a brand they can trust. This is not only something we at Martin do now, but something we’ve been doing for six-generations.”

The Dreadnought, originally developed and manufactured by Martin Guitar in the early-1900s was first produced in 1931 bearing the Martin name, during hard economic times. The first two legendary models were named the D-1 and D-2 that soon became the now legendary D-18 and D-28. During the depression, Martin would continue to innovate and introduce several new style models, including the all mahogany Style 15 and Style 17 models, which provided an extraordinary value during that period. Those guitars became favorites of blues players in the post-depression era. More than any other acoustic guitar brand, Martin instruments have typically held or dramatically increased in value, and continue to be prized by collectors, players and guitar aficionados around the world.

All “1 Series" models purchased from dealers in the U.S and Canada are covered by a Limited Lifetime Warranty. Every “1 Series" guitar comes equipped with Martin SP strings for great long-lasting tone and sustain, as well as a hard-shell case to provide protection and security.

About Martin Guitar:

Founded over 175 years ago, in 1833 by Christian Frederick Martin, C.F. Martin & Co. has been continuously family owned and operated for six generations. The oldest surviving acoustic instrument maker in the world and largest producer of acoustic guitars in the U.S., Martin guitars are hand-made by skilled craftsmen and women, many still using the design and techniques introduced by the company founder in the 1830s. The privately held manufacturer is highly regarded for creating some of the finest instruments and introducing innovations that have become industry standards in the music products industry including the now-standard X-bracing, the 14-fret guitar and the “Dreadnought” size. Current Chairman and CEO Christian Frederick Martin, IV, took the helm of the company in 1986.